Pope's No. 2 offers new insights into climate encyclical

VATICAN CITY – Pope Francis' No. 2 says a new development model is needed to combat global warming, one that marries economic growth with sustainability.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, said in another prelude to Francis' environment encyclical that both political and economic commitment will be required to ensure the planet's health for future generations.

Parolin's remarks were contained in a message Wednesday to a conference of business and church leaders on how sustainable actions can drive the economic growth needed to lift people out of poverty. It's a theme that Francis is expected to explore in his encyclical, which is due in the coming weeks.

The conference was organized by the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate, which aims to promote growth while addressing climate change.